A Photographer I Admire...

Jose Villa Wedding Photography from Ben Potter & Drew Barefoot on Vimeo.

Here is Jose Villa in action.  While this is not me, this is what I get to do at every wedding.  There is something so magical about a wedding day.  It is amazing to think that people throughout time have held a wedding in such high regards.  I love being a part and distilling, in photographs, the beauty of the day.

Anna, Ryan, James & Claire

I love this first image.  

The calm and beauty radiating from this mom's face is like a cool drink on a hot day.  

What is even more noteworthy, is that it was no small feat to get everyone into the frame of my camera.  

Elizabeth (this momma) was not concerned, she laughed and enjoyed the humor of trying to wrangle each one onto the rock.   It was as if she was saying "this is my life & I love it."  

It was a pleasure to meet with their larger family and grab some photos of their time together.  Elizabeth is also a budding photographer that I've gotten to know through a friend of a friend.  (Now I can claim her as my own!)  Her beautiful work is intuitive and artistic.  I wish her, Bill & their four children many blessings as they take their upcoming steps of faith.  I expect to see inspired images of their journey as a family & hers as a talented photographer.

Your friend,

Pamela

A Good Story Must Be Told...

Just one shot from this weekend's wedding...  

Taking photos with Celeste and her parents near a golf course before her ceremony, a shot comes up the fairway, across a huge green, down the backside of the green and rolls under her dress!  

When the dress is lifted, look where we find the golfer's ball!   Hole-in-one!  Well, sort of...  The golfer was slightly embarrassed and joined us for a few photos.  Celeste did a great job of not touching the ball, to keep it in play.  

Congrats to Rob & Celeste, their families & friends!

Fun, fun, fun!

While I am working about 3/4 time (plenty of weddings, portrait & senior sessions to keep me busy!) and running around with my kiddos (ages 9 and 5) this summer, I thought I might draw a line of distinction between my life and that of my children with this cute video by TMBG!  

Parker and Family ~ A One Year Old Session

Wow!  I took Parker's pictures in his first week of life and he was a tiny peanut.  I was shocked when Parker showed up to his one year old session looking more like a two or three year old!  

It is really exciting to document a vastly different stage.  Parker, you are adorable.

Meeting outdoors can be a great alternative to containing a toddler in a studio.  Annette brought some favorite riding toys, a blanket & two outfits.  I am always thrilled to give parents such a variety of shots.

Just a brief word about lighting & naps...  Parker came to his session right after his morning nap.  He was rested & mom had some time to put a few items together.  Also, don't worry about summer cloud cover or grey skies.  Mid morning with clouds gave the most divine light we could have ever asked for.  Amazing... I can't wait to show you your collection!  

Thanks Annette & Brett for coming out with Parker.  Truly, a sweet and smart little guy. 

Congrats on one year!

Pamela

Luke & Eva ~ A Family Session

"Anytime I talk about Eva I guard my heart... Being with her is like holding a special edition that will soon be discontinued. It is like if a life staple...was going to be discontinued, you would want to determine how you could get as much as you could as fast as you could. All I can do is say that I love her... Childhood is a precious thing, and I am not going to let it rush by."

-A blog entry from a mother

This family warms my heart.  I have many poignant memories with these parents from my UW days.  Now I see that I also share a similar view of life as a parent.

Luke, their firstborn, is quite literally the energizer bunny.  They have taken the child hiking and he can run the course (mile after mile) while the adults walk.  I got a glimpse of his energy at their session.  

Eva is a very sweet little girl, who has charmed everyone in her family.  She has a beautiful, infectious smile and laugh.  Eva is also the first granddaughter after seven grandsons.  

I loved this note I got from Alyssa a few months ago...

"I wish I lived with you and you could take all my pictures.  I looked on your blog and website and they are truly magical.  I feel like God has blessed me so much in this time and I don't get the same feelings looking back on our home video or other shots.  I look forward to having you take our photos on Saturday, as well as the future."

Dave & Alyssa, this time in life will not be repeated & is truly amazing.  Thanks for letting me capture some of it.  Enjoy the bumps, quirks & joys of parenthood.  Blessings, Pamela

Kari & Andy ~ Married!

'If my wedding photos look like these, I will be so happy.'  These were Kari's words when she, Andy & I met in Port Washington last year to discuss their wedding details.  

Kari & Andy were relaxed and beautiful, even on the first hot day of the year.  The old building facade at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center was the perfect backdrop for a lovely garden wedding.  

Flower girl, Elise, was pretty comfortable in her role, too!  She would stop for any camera (even coming down the aisle) to give an adorable smile.  Yes, Elise is in about half of the day's photographs!

I also want to thank my assistant, Leah, whose work is completely gorgeous (she was able to get artistic details & the entire setting of the ceremony).  Many of these photos are hers!  If you are in the Chicago area, she is a fabulous child/family photographer (and starting weddings, too).  Click on her name to be directed to her website.  Thank you for your talent, Leah.

Kari & Andy, it was such an honor to document your wedding day.  Many blessings to you both on a very happy life together.

Enjoy,

Pamela